American world champion boxer, Floyd Mayweather provoked his opponent with a homophobic slur on Friday night (14 July).
In a press conference for an upcoming match with Conor McGregor, Mayweather shouted a slew of names, including faggot, punk, bitch, pussy, and ho.
A mixed reaction from the crowd erupts, with some even booing the homophobic slur.
Twitter reacted angrily, with many calling for boxers to use more inclusive language.
Racism within boxing
McGregor’s no saint either. He previously told Mayweather to ‘Dance for me, boy’ – a historically racist slur used against black men.
During the press conference, Mayweather also said: ‘Racism still exists. It’s all about treating people like you want to be treated. To get respect you must give respect.
‘There are certain levels you don’t stoop to and certain levels you just don’t go to. I love everybody from all walks of life,’ he added.
And then he called McGregor a faggot. Go figure.
Floyd Mayweather previously responded to anti-gay slurs from Manny Pacquiao that gay people are ‘worse than animals.’
‘I think we should just stay positive,’ Mayweather told TMZ Sports.
‘I feel that we should let people live their lives the way they want to live their lives. I’ve nothing against anyone. To each his own,’ he added.
Maybe he should practice what he preaches.
Mayweather and McGregor will face off in their highly anticipated match on Saturday 26 August.
